A race to the summit of the iconic and spectacular Idaho Peak and back with a 1.6 km vertical elevation gain/loss. The race takes place along some of the most enjoyable single track running trails in British Columbia. The race utilizes old mining roads steeped in history and carved out along the Carpenter Creek and New Denver Canyons. This may be the only mountain marathon in North America which involves using a cable car to cross a creek! Spectacular views of Slocan Lake and the Valhallas await you at the summit, rewarding your effort. This route will not disappoint!

The climb out of New Denver is gentle and ‘run-able’, staying on the south side of Carpenter Creek along the Old Sandon mining road. The road deteriorates into a single track winding its way through former mining artifacts and crossing numerous creeks. Continuing onto Alamo Wagon Road, the climb pops out onto the Queen Bess mining road, traversing the slope and then heading straight up to the north summit, where you will find some telecommunication towers. From here, climb your way up the rounded ridge to the fire look-out hut at the summit of Idaho Peak, having climbed a vertical mile from the start line. Stop and enjoy the 360 degree views of snowy mountain peaks, pristine wilderness and the spectacular Slocan Lake 1715m below!

Get your number checked off and start the long descent down the well-defined East Ridge route to the car park P1. Descend the main road for 3km before entering a tributary trail to connect back to the Queen Bess, traverse round the northern flank to the trails of H Road, the Galena Trail, then a bucket crossing Carpenter Creek and back along the Lower Carpenter Creek Trail to New Denver finish – where food, drink and support await you.

10K Trail Run:
The race begins 2.26km towards Sandon from Three Forks (approx 10km EAST of New Denver towards Kaslo at the Sandon turn-off)

This is a one-way route down one of the most majestic and well-loved trails in the Kootenays – the Galena Trail. Entertaining and varied, the route uses a scenic and historic old mining trail. The trail is nestled among the trees, high above the banks of Carpenter Creek. It is described as a vigorous run – somewhat technical but fun and flowing. The run comes with the added attraction of using the cable car crossing at Carpenter Creek. This is approximately the half-way point of the race. It is possible that a wait will be necessary if the cable car is at capacity.

Enjoy a shared finish line with the Idaho Peak Marathon. Most (if not all) 10k racers should finish their race before the first Marathon racer crosses the line. The finish is located on the grassy lot south of the Recycle Bins, 1 block south of KNOX HALL.